With the cold snap being felt from May onwards here in Brisbane, many homes are using more electricity to power appliances and heat their homes. From taking longer showers and using heaters, electric blankets and even using the kettle and the toaster more frequently, colder mornings and nights mean we rely more on energy to stay comfortable.
But there are some precautions that should be adhered to so you and your family can keep cosy and safe because winter is also the seasons for house fires around Australia. Our Wynnum based electricians at Bevan Robinson Electrical explain some quick checks and tips for using electrical appliances this winter.
Before Using Electric Heaters or Blankets
- Inspect for fraying cords or wear on electric blankets, heaters and other appliances that might not have been used for a while. This is especially important for the piece of cord near the plug.
- Vacuum the back of fan heaters and any filters. These can build up dust over time which can become a fire hazard.
- Inspect for rust on the grille of electric heaters. Significant rust can cause hotspots which can lead to an electrical fire.
- Any of the above damage to these appliances means should not be used unless repaired by an electrician.
Before Buying a New Heater
- Look for models with good energy efficiency. Generally electric heaters are cheaper to purchase but cost far more to run than solar or gas heaters.
- Look for models that have built in safety features including tip over and overheating protection.
- Be wary of buying models which are not manufactured to Australian standards. Look for an approval mark on the packaging and buy from reputable retail outlets.
Using Portable Heaters Safely
- Don’t leave heaters or electric blankets on throughout the night or when you leave the home
- Keep heaters away from curtains, bedding and other fabrics. Do not try to dry clothes by draping it over the heater, keep a 1 metre minimum distance between your heater and other objects
- Look for any dislodged heating elements in room heaters before using.
Test you smoke alarms are working
The onset of winter is also a good time to make sure your smoke alarms are working correctly, if you haven’t recently done so. Ionisation smoke alarms don’t offer the same protection as photoelectric models so it might be worth installing new models, especially if your alarms are nearing the end of their 10 year recommended life span. Check also that batteries are replaced if using battery operated models.
With winter also comes the increased likelihood that rats and mice could take up refuge indoors – most often in your roof. If you have had rats in the roof recently it is definitely worth calling an electrician to inspect and replace your wiring to reduce this common fire hazard.
For more advice on electrical safety, appliance repairs or electrical wiring replacement and repairs, call Bevan Robinson Electrical, your reliable local Brisbane electricians. Phone (07) 3893 2792